In
this activity, students test the quality of a local body of water. Students
collect water samples to study pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, particle
suspension, plants, macroinvertebrates, and vertebrates. The class compiles
the data and evaluates the overall biological water quality of the study
area. Students also examine the land around the sampling area to study the
effects of human impact. This activity uses the Calculator Based Laboratory
system with a variety of probes and graphic analysis computer software.
Testing the Waters should be conducted at least twice during the
school year and can be used for a long-term project.